Blue Cross & Blue Shield introduce benefits to assist older Rhode Islanders
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) – Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI) is helping older Rhode Islanders by partnering with Papa to provide daily living assistance to members who need help with various everyday tasks.
This program comes free to BCBSRI Medicare Advantage members, including those in BlueRI for Duals. Papa connects adults to “Pals” who can give transportation, help with exercise and even clean. Pals can also help by offering companionship and conversations.
“The last two years have shown us the importance of staying connected to a community of support,” said Melissa Cummings, BCBSRI executive vice president and chief customer officer. “Bringing Papa’s network to our Medicare Advantage customers is just one of the many ways we help our members manage their overall health and wellbeing. A Papa Pal can help with everything from transportation to a medical visit, to setting up technology in the home, to helping prepare a meal. I am proud to offer this proven service to help Rhode Islanders stay connected.”
The program features a careful screening process, and sets them up to provide a variety of services:
- Companionship – Chat, play board games, watch a movie, take a walk and exercise
- House needs – Light cleaning, meal preparation, home organization and pet help
- Transportation – Doctor appointments, errands, pharmacy and grocery shopping
- Technology help – Help with computers, smart phones, tablets and accessing telehealth
Current BCBSRI Medicare Advantage members can learn more by calling the Medicare team at 1-844-423-3875 or visiting the BCBSRI website . To learn more about BCBSRI Medicare Advantage plans, call 1-800-505-BLUE, visit the Medicare home on the BCBS Website , or stop by one of the four Your Blue Store locations in Cranston, East Providence, Lincoln and Warwick.
